BJP MLAs troop out over dail-wagers’ job demands
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The parliamentary panel on railways recommends reviewing AC fares and implementing dynamic pricing for AC classes and premium trains while keeping rail travel affordable for low-income passengers. They also suggest enhancing non-fare revenue through e-auctions and advertisements and maintaining targeted subsidies for suburban and non-AC travel.
The Opposition walked out of the Rajya Sabha, accusing the government of removing dissenting notes from the JPC report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill. Union minister Kiren Rijiju denied the claims, stating all proceedings were in accordance with the rules and dissent notes were included in the appendix.
The Ministry of External Affairs summoned Bangladesh's acting high commissioner to discuss border security issues, reinforcing India's commitment to a crime-free border. Emphasizing existing protocols and agreements, India highlighted key measures such as fencing and lighting. Bangladesh cited unequal agreements for recent border tensions, particularly over the BSF's fencing attempts in Malda, escalating concerns over infiltration.
The BJP staged a protest in Kalaburagi demanding Minister Priyank Kharge's resignation over a contractor's alleged suicide. BJP leaders urge a CBI inquiry, while Kharge denies involvement and calls for an investigation. Citing cases against BJP figures, the Minister and government stand firm against opposition pressure.
Two brothers, along with their uncle and two cousins, were sentenced to life imprisonment by a court in Bareilly for murdering their father’s alleged killer in 2017. They avenged the death of their father, who was killed 23 years ago. The court imposed fines and sentenced all five involved to life imprisonment.
Delhi Police identified a juvenile responsible for sending hoax bomb threats to schools last year. His parent is connected to an NGO with links to a political party. The NGO had earlier questioned the legitimacy of terrorist Afzal Guru's hanging. The investigation is ongoing, and there have been at least seven confirmed instances of hoax emails.
India saw a rise in auto fuel and electricity consumption in December, driven by farm sector demand, holiday travel, and colder weather. Diesel and petrol sales increased annually, though they dipped slightly compared to November. Jet fuel sales also grew, while LPG consumption soared due to festive cooking. Electricity usage surged with peak power demand reaching over 224 GW.
The Indian government anticipates a slowdown in highway construction over the next two years due to fewer new project awards in 2023-24. Despite this, the road transport ministry aims to exceed its target of constructing 10,400 km of national highways this fiscal year, hoping to reach 11,000 km, though maintaining this momentum will be challenging.
BJP allocates two Delhi assembly poll seats to allies JD(U) and LJP (Ram Vilas). JD(U) to contest from Burari and LJP from Deoli. BJP fields additional 9 candidates, including Shikha Rai and Anil Vashishth. Elections for the 70-member assembly are scheduled for February 5, with results on February 8. Candidates must file nominations by January 17.
A CISF woman Head Constable posted at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport died by suicide with her service pistol in a washroom at Terminal 3. Delhi Police found no suicide note and are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death. Forensic evidence was collected and the body sent for a postmortem examination.